10 Life Lessons from Children’s Books

Sometimes you just need some inspirational reminders to cheer you up and put things in perspective. And what better way, especially on Dr. Seuss’s Birthday, than to go back to the tales of your childhood when things were a little simpler (tree houses and tea parties, those were the days).

Here are 10 life lessons that will bring a little bit of that playground magic back:

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein: The classic about a tree who loved a little boy down to her stump and would do absolutely anything for him. A little reminder that it is better to give than receive, so why not make someone’s day with a surprise “happy”? Clean the house, buy them flowers, give them an unexpected hug, a smile, anything. It’s guaranteed to make you both feel better.

Winnie the Pooh by A.A. Milne: Carpe Diem (Seize The Day): “You can’t always sit in your corner of the forest and wait for people to come to you… you have to go to them sometimes.” Make the extra effort, take the chance, be proactive and be a good friend.

Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss: Oh the rhymes of Dr. Seuss. Such a poet. Sometimes you don’t know if you will like something until you try it! (Though really, A for Effort on green food outside of St. Patrick’s Day.) Happy #DrSeussDay to all!

The Runaway Bunny by Margaret Wise Brown: One of the read along books to Goodnight Moon. Essentially, your mother will morph herself into anything in order to be with you if you try to run away. Just call your mom, you will both feel better.

The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper: Have confidence in your ability, and give it the old college try no matter how small you are (or how small you feel). Also, always help others in need. And Just. Be. Nice.

Giraffes Can’t Danceby Giles Andreae and Guy Parker-Rees: Sometimes you have to find the music that makes you want to shake it (find your own dance and your own way).

Peanut Butter & Cupcake by Terry Border: There’s a perfect match out there for all us, whether it is a furry friend, a life partner or spouse, or a human friend. Keep trying until you find someone who is the vodka to your club soda (oops, forgot we were talking about children’s books here). And maybe we’re reading too much into it, but we think it’s encouraging cupcake consumption. We’re in.

Little Blue Truck by Alice Schertle: Take the time to say a friendly “beep” to everyone you come across, be it human or animal. You just may make their day and your kindness will surely be returned.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle: You never know when someone or something will blossom into a new and lovely creature. Also, be a foodie. It worked out for this little green guy.

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